MACOREMA IV

A very successful reunion was held at the Rocky Mountain Resort in Banff, Alberta, on August 2-4, 2024. Out of a possible 122 attendees, there were 106. The festivities began with everyone gathering in the Hospitality suite on Friday evening--a great chance to reconnect, -and for new family members to meet everyone.

Saturday's Sulphur Mountain Gondola Ride was well-attended, and thoroughly appreciated by those who participated. Saturday night's banquet and dance were very special. The slide show that Dennis compiled brought back many memories, the food was delicious, and I think the youngest attendees enjoyed the dance possibly more than their older relatives!

Sunday was action-packed! The early-morning hike to Johnson Canyon, the Bow River Canoe Tour, and the golfing at Canmore kept the more energetic ones busy. For the most part, the weather cooperated for all activities, except for the golfers who were drenched by a sudden rain/hail storm and were not able to complete their rounds.

Our closing event--the Family Happy Hour--was another enjoyable experience. There were memorabilia from previous gatherings for people to peruse, and the Genealogy Trivia Quiz was a lot fun. With a nod to the Summer Olympics being held in Paris, everyone was randomly assigned to one of ten country-named teams. The gold medal winners were Team Tunisia--Paul, Sam P, Nik, Kate, Charlotte, Peter, Patti, Peggy M, Kathleen and Stephanie A. Congratulations to them!

In addition to the planned activities, there were many opportunities for mini-gatherings, after-parties, shopping, sightseeing, and just visiting. The organizing committee (Barb, Peggy F, Rhonda, Laurel and Dana) must be congratulated. They made it look easy and everything ran smoothly. Thanks are also due to the behind-the-scenes helpers. The venue was perfect, and the hotel staff very accommodating and efficient.

Getting home proved a bit challenging for some. Despite the huge Calgary hailstorm, a mudslide, and traffic delays, everyone eventually arrived home safely----even if it was 2 or 3 days later than planned!

Good news! There are already plans for MACOREMA V! Sarah, Kathleen and Erin have already formed a committee and will be recruiting others to help. Mark your calendars for July 30-August 2, 2027. Venue to be determined! Will see you all there!

And let's keep the WhatsApp Macorema Group going! Everyone's contributions before, during and after the reunion added a very special dimension!

P.S. You can view the slide show and the reunion pictures elsewhere on this site.